Calcification of the Common Carotid Artery Leading to Suspicion of Metastasis to Cervical Lymph Nodes

Abstract

We have recently experienced 2 cases of calcification of the common carotid artery with cancer of the left palatine tonsil and cancer of the larynx respectively.
In case 1, a 70 year old male, a pulsating tumor became palpable on the left side of the neck 2 months after operation. Metastasis to lymph nodes was suspected and lymphadenectomy was attempted. Since the tumor was hard and stone-like and proved to represent induration of the arterial wall itself, it was left untouched to take its own course. On the plain X-ray picture of the neck, a picture of calcification was noted at the site of the tumor.
In case 2, also a 70 year old male, a hard tumor was palpated as in case 1, immediately above the common carotid artery, in the internal carotid artery, during the operation. Plain X-ray films taken postoeratively revealed calcification.
Since both of these cases had cancer, lymph node metastasis was first suspected. During operations in the aged, calcification due to tumors should be remembered as one of the vascular anomalies along with aneurysm and tortuosity of the carotid artery.